Rep. Marcy Toepel (R-Montgomery) has introduced legislation which would make it illegal to demonstrate within a certain range of a cemetery, church, or other location being used for the purpose of a commemorative service.

“Families who have lost loved ones should have a right to mourn peacefully, privately, and without harassment,” Toepel said. “My legislation, House Bill 1246, would make it a second-degree misdemeanor for anyone to demonstrate within 500 feet of a location being used for a service related to a funeral. I am hopeful my colleagues on both sides of the aisle will support this legislation.”

Toepel introduced this legislation largely in response to activities by organizations which have demonstrated at funeral services both in Pennsylvania and other parts of the country.